Vikings Falcons Clash Sunday Night Football

The Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons face off Sunday Night Football in Week 2, with the Vikings favored by 3.5 points as they look to build on a thrilling comeback win in Week 1. Both teams are led by young quarterbacks—J.J. McCarthy for the Vikings, fresh off his first NFL start, and Michael Penix Jr. for the Falcons, who is seeking his first road victory after a strong debut despite a loss. The Falcons enter the game 0-1 following a narrow defeat to the Buccaneers, hampered by missed field goals and special teams struggles, and face challenges with injuries and roster adjustments, including a new kicker. The Vikings, who have won the last two matchups against the Falcons, will be without key defensive players, including linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, but remain confident given their home field advantage and momentum. Analysts predict another close game, with most expecting the Vikings to secure the win, though the Falcons hope to avoid falling to 0-2 and revive their season. The game also marks the first professional meeting between quarterbacks McCarthy and Penix, who previously faced off in the 2024 national championship at the college level.